PERRY, MO — A large and steady crowd gathered in downtown Perry on Saturday, October 25, 2025, for Mule Appreciation Day and the official dedication of the Missouri Mule Museum. The celebration took place on a cool fall day, drawing visitors of all ages to honor Missouri’s state animal and the rich history it represents.

Throughout the morning and early afternoon, several mules wandered Main Street while Gary and Debbie Hodges’s mule team—George and Sam—pulled their elegant white carriage, offering rides to attendees. The festive atmosphere reflected both pride and gratitude for the community’s newest cultural attraction.

At 1:00 p.m., a ribbon-cutting ceremony formally dedicated the museum. Perry Mayor Megan Branstetter welcomed the Missouri Mule Museum to the Perry community, followed by Perry Chamber of Commerce member John DiMaria, who cut the ceremonial red ribbon.

During the ceremony, Stephen Foutes, Missouri’s Director of Tourism, spoke warmly of visiting his grandparents in Perry as a child. Ralls County Historical Society President Ron Leake reflected on the importance of the mule in Missouri and Ralls County history, and he thanked Jim and Jeanie Gay for their vision and work in developing the museum. Jeanie Gay, museum curator, honored her parents, Gene and Elsa Chipman, and recognized descendants of Richard Kohl, the Chipmans’ mule partner. Four members of the Kohl family attended and were acknowledged during the ceremony.

The Missouri Mule Museum features exhibits telling the story of the important role the mule has played in the history of Missouri and the nation. Gay noted that the date of the event was significant: on October 25, 1785, George Washington received a prized Spanish jack named Royal Gift from King Charles III of Spain. That gift helped launch mule breeding in America, laying the foundation for the strong, hardworking mules that became essential to agriculture and industry. Two centuries later, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed October 26 as National Mule Day, and in 1995, the Missouri Legislature designated the mule as the official state animal.

The museum, located in a restored historic building on Main Street, also houses the Ralls County Historical Society Library in its south end. Purchased in October 2024, the former Western Auto building was refreshed through the efforts and donations of Jim and Jeanie Gay. New flooring, repainted walls, and a restored tile ceiling highlight the building’s 19th-century character while providing a welcoming, updated space to showcase the museum and library.

Visitors expressed admiration for the displays, which include artifacts and information about Missouri mules, as well as donated items from the University of Missouri Veterinary Clinic. The Ralls County Historical Society Museum, located across the street, was also open and well attended throughout the day.

Several community volunteers—Sandie Storm, Mary Jackson, Patti Tinsley, and Mary Wasson—helped make the event a success. Activities included a “Walk Through Challenge,” which encouraged guests to explore exhibits and answer questions for a prize; pumpkin decorating for children; a mule-themed cookie contest; and a mule cutout photo station.

“The museum is a way for people to realize and honor the importance of the mule in our history,” said Jeanie Gay, curator of the Missouri Mule Museum.

The Missouri Mule Museum, located at 114 E. Main Street in Perry, is open 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. through November.